Yellow Pages answers public call

Turns out it wasn't your eyes after all. This year's phone books will have bigger print and new paper, making them easier to read, publisher Yellow said yesterday.

Yellow chief executive Chris Armistead said the change was in response to feedback from members of the community who preferred the old font. "When I became chief executive in August, it has been one of my priorities to look for ways that we can improve our print directories and our digital offering. The font and paper quality are two improvements I'm pleased to announce."

The feedback on the improved directories has been positive, with Timaru the first region to receive the new-look book. Marlborough's new phone books are due to be delivered in March.

Mr Armistead said Yellow's job was to help Kiwis find the information they want, wherever, whenever and however they're searching, be that online, mobile or via a book. "Some people don't have internet access or a computer, or they simply prefer the printed book. It's about getting the balance right, in this case for people who rely on our books."

Last year, Yellow argued that the smaller format was "more user-friendly", the smaller size easier to use, handle and store. The company offered to send magnifying glasses to anyone having difficulty reading the phone books.